Ruud hands Scots boost

The Holland striker claims Dick Advocaat will not pick him to face Scotland

RUUD van Nistelrooy has revealed the depth of his disenchantment with Holland manager Dick Advocaat, and claimed he has no chance of starting in his country’s Euro 2004 qualification playoff with Scotland. The Manchester United striker claims there has been a breakdown in trust with Advocaat, the former Rangers manager, who has preferred to use Barcelona forward Patrick Kluivert in recent matches.

The tense relations between the two men came to the fore when Van Nistelrooy threw a tantrum during the Euro 2004 qualifier with the Czech Republic when he was substituted. Advocaat dropped him from the subsequent match with Moldova, although the player has since apologised.

However, in remarks reported by L’Equipe, Van Nistelrooy revealed his unhappiness. “Considering the fact that he substitutes me systematically, I don’t feel any trust in him,” said Van Nistelrooy.

He believes he has no chance of starting in the Euro 2004 play-off matches